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Nageshi Temple, Bandora
Shiva (Nagesh) · Bandora · Goa
॥ ॐ नमः शिवाय ॥
The Nageshi Temple at Bandora in Ponda is one of the older Hindu temples of Goa, dedicated to Shiva worshipped as Nagesh, or Nagesha Maharudra. It is among the shrines that endured or were re-established during the Portuguese era, when many Goan temples were relocated to safer ground. The temple is known for its tall brass lamp-tower, a sacred tank and old wall murals depicting scenes from the epics.
An old temple of Ponda
Nageshi stands at Bandora in the Ponda taluka, an inland area of Goa where a number of Hindu temples were preserved or rebuilt during Portuguese rule. The temple honours Shiva as Nagesh, the form of Nagesha Maharudra, and has remained an active centre of worship for the surrounding community.
Ponda became a refuge for temples displaced from the coastal districts, and Nageshi is counted among these venerable shrines, its history bound up with the wider story of how Goan Hindu worship survived through difficult times.
Lamp-tower, tank and murals
A striking feature of the temple is its deepstambha, a tall brass lamp-tower that is lit on festival nights, glowing with rows of oil lamps. Before the temple lies a sacred tank, its still water reflecting the surrounding buildings.
The temple’s interior preserves old wall murals depicting scenes from the epics, painted in the regional style. Together the lamp-tower, tank and paintings give Nageshi its particular character among Goa’s temples.
Worship and festivals
As a Shiva temple, Nageshi observes the daily rites of abhisheka and lamp offerings before the lingam of Nagesh, attended by the temple priests and the devotees of Bandora and beyond.
The temple’s annual Jatra, or chariot festival, and Maha Shivaratri are its principal occasions, when the deepstambha is lit, processions are held and large numbers of worshippers gather.
How to reach Nageshi Temple
- By road: Nageshi is at Bandora near Ponda, a short drive from Panaji and Margao, well served by Goa state buses and taxis.
- By train: Karmali railway station near Old Goa is among the nearest, with taxis onward to Bandora; Margao is another convenient railhead.
- By air: Goa’s Dabolim Airport is roughly 30 to 35 km away, with taxis to the temple at Bandora.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Nageshi Temple?
The temple is at Bandora in the Ponda taluka of Goa, an inland area where many Hindu temples were preserved.
Which deity is worshipped here?
Shiva is worshipped as Nagesh, the form of Nagesha Maharudra, in the form of a lingam.
What is the temple known for?
It is known for its tall brass lamp-tower, a sacred tank and old wall murals showing scenes from the epics.
Why is the temple historically significant?
It is among the Goan temples that endured or were re-established during the Portuguese era, when many shrines were relocated inland.
What are the main festivals?
The temple’s annual Jatra and Maha Shivaratri are its chief festivals, when the lamp-tower is lit and processions are held.
How do I reach Nageshi from the airport?
Dabolim Airport is about 30 to 35 km away, with taxis running to Bandora near Ponda.
॥ हर हर महादेव ॥ • Bhaktiras.net Temple Guide
| Primary Deity | Shiva (Nagesh Maharudra) |
| Location | Bandora, Ponda |
| State | Goa |
| Known For | Brass lamp-tower, sacred tank |
| Art | Old epic-scene wall murals |
| Major Festivals | Jatra, Maha Shivaratri |
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